The definitive stories of how our state fossils, state dinosaurs and other state stones and gems were proposed and selected. And what a marvelous array of specimens and species have been elevated to such lofty status! We note that 'stately fossils' run the gamut of variety and time. From trilobites and brachiopods through fossil whales (Tully) monsters, and so many incredible species in between, spanning the three Phanerozoic eras. Steve has traced the story of how fossils became "the" state fossils all the way back to an early period in the emerging science of paleontology in America. In these unfolding tales, Steve relates many intriguing details concerning the adoption of fossils carrying special significance in 44 of our 50 states. This book is written clearly & informatively. It succeeds as a book that both young & old can enjoy. For each entry Steve describes the history of discoveries of each fossil, the occurrence and paleoecology pf the species and circumstances leading toward legislation of the fossils as the official "state fossils."

Fossils,
by David Ward. 320 pages. Publisher: Dorling Kindersley (September 1, 2010) A new edition of the clearest, most authoritative guide to rocks, minerals and fossils you will find.

Packed with more than 1,000 amazing photographs of over 500 species, this handbook is designed to cut through the complicated identification process and enable you to recognize species instantly. Covers everything from what a fossil is, how they are classified to how to start a collection.